What is NFT Metadata

NFT Metadata is a crucial component in the world of Non-Fungible Tokens. It serves as the digital "identity card" of an NFT, providing essential information about the token's attributes and characteristics. Metadata is what brings life and context to your NFTs, making them unique and valuable in the eyes of collectors and users.

Key Elements of NFT Metadata

NFT metadata typically includes:

• Name: The name of the NFT, often used to provide it with a unique identity.
• Image: A reference to the visual representation associated with the NFT.
• Attributes: Descriptive properties that define the NFT, such as rarity, edition, or any other unique characteristics.

Metadata is a fundamental aspect of NFTs, as it not only defines their appearance but also conveys their value and narrative. When showcased on applications and NFT marketplaces, metadata helps potential buyers to understand and appreciate these digital collectibles.

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Note:

For more information about our metadata structure check the Metadata standards Opensea documentation

Understanding NFT Storage

There are several possibilities for storing metadata associated with NFTs on the blockchain. NFT metadata can be stored directly on the blockchain, on a centralized server, or on IPFS. Presently, IPFS is the prevailing choice for storing NFT metadata due to its cost-effectiveness and superior decentralization. It is for this reason that we chose to integrate IPFS as our storage method for NFT metadata.

What is IPFS

IPFS, short for the InterPlanetary File System, is a decentralized and distributed file storage system. It provides a way to store and retrieve data in a peer-to-peer networking, making it an excellent choice for storing NFTs.

Advantages of IPFS

• Decentralization: Data is distributed across the IPFS network, eliminating a single point of failure.
• Immutability: Once data is added to IPFS, a unique identifier is generated and it is the point of access to the data. It cannot be altered, ensuring the integrity of the data.
• Accessibility: IPFS enables easy and efficient retrieval of data from anywhere in the world.

Usage of IPFS at Original

When using our API to create an asset, we will store the asset's metadata on IPFS in the production environment. Then, the unique identifier generated by IPFS is set on the blockchain to associate the asset with its metadata.

We also give the possibility to store the asset image on IPFS. This provides additional decentralization and ensures that the image remains always accessible. For more details on how to create an asset and leverage IPFS for image storage, please refer to create an asset for more information about this feature.

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Important about IPFS storage

When using our API to create an asset, we will store the asset's image and metadata on IPFS only for apps in Production.

Asset's images and metadata created for apps in Development will be hosted in our storage and not on IPFS.